Staying Connected

It’s hard to feel courageous during these times, especially when there is so much instability around us. But that’s exactly why there has never been a better time to reach out and refresh your community and loved ones. You might be asking how can we stay connected to one another as we navigate this new territory? By utilizing technology, we can bridge the isolation gap and prevent one another from feeling alone and cut off. It’s during times of crisis, that we have the opportunity to step up and meet the needs of those around us. Being able to use your phone or computer and actually see a loved one can have a tremendous effect on their well-being and make a significant difference in your health, too.

WHY SHOULD WE STAY CONNECTED? Increase mental health | Create a sense of community | Ward off depression | Support our neighbors

How can we stay connected? Many people all over the world are struggling with the realities of quarantine in solitude, and it’s up to us to make sure they are being heard. If we don’t do it, who will? The good news is that in this digital age, there are a plethora of easy-to-use, online meeting platforms like Facetime, Facebook Video Chat, Whatsapp, Zoom, Houseparty, and Skype. We want to encourage our fellow Altrua members to use these tools to reach out and check in on friends and loved ones. We all inherently crave a sense of togetherness, and although we must stay apart until the quarantine is lifted, we still have the tools we need to stay connected and encouraged. In fact, many people are already corresponding and sharing on social media more than ever.

Do good. Feel good. Helping others increases happiness and well-being for the giver and the receiver. It is more important than ever to connect to your neighbors and offer to help those who are vulnerable and have fewer resources. Here are three groups that can immediately benefit from a check in…

People who are out of work. Unemployment is a significant cause of loneliness and isolation. Being unemployed is financially and emotionally difficult and can quickly lead to low self-esteem. A simple phone or video call could make all the difference in the life of someone feeling this way.

Parents of young children, especially single parents without any immediate support. Being around kids all day would make anyone long for adult interaction and conversation. Your video call will make a world of difference!

The elderly. If you miss your grandparents like we do, it can be a gift to speak to someone that reminds you of them. Just remember to be extra patient with elderly individuals who have a hard time navigating technology; sometimes, they need a little more time to practice. But hey, what’s the rush, we all have a little more time on our hands.

Yes, we are distancing ourselves to stay healthy and safe, but that doesn’t mean we have to be disconnected. Let’s take this opportunity to reach out and shine into the lives of the people that need it the most.